A new entry inhibitor (EI) is in the works. Like the EIs already on the market, cenicriviroc (TBR-652) is designed to prevent HIV from invading immune cells to infect them.

And it might do more. The manufacturer, Tobira Therapeutics, says the drug may also calm the immune system and suppress inflammation. Here’s how: To keep HIV from entering cells, cenicriviroc blocks the CCR5 entry portal. But it also blocks CCR2, which is associated with increased inflammation. And inflammation is thought to cause many HIV-related health problems. Find more on cenicriviroc trials at clinicaltrials.gov.